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Gilbert syndrome

Abstract

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NORD is very grateful to Namita Roy-Chowdhury, PhD, and Jayanta Roy-Chowdhury, MD, Professors of Medicine and Molecular Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Liver Research Center, for assistance in the preparation of this report.

Synonyms of Gilbert syndrome

constitutional liver dysfunction

familial nonhemolytic jaundice

Gilbert-Lereboullet syndrome

Gilbert's disease

hyperbilirubinemia I

Meulengracht's disease

unconjugated benign bilirubinemia

Disorder Subdivisions

No subdivisions found.

General Discussion

Gilbert syndrome is a mild genetic liver disorder in which the body cannot properly process bilirubin, a yellowish waste product that is formed when old or worn out red blood cells are broken down (hemolysis). Individuals with Gilbert syndrome have elevated levels of bilirubin (hyperbilirubinemia), because they have a reduced level of a specific liver enzyme required for elimination of bilirubin. Most affected individuals have no symptoms (asymptomatic) or may only exhibit mild yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes (jaundice). Jaundice may not be apparent until adolescence. Bilirubin levels may increase following stress, exertion, dehydration alcohol consumption, fasting, and/or infection. In some individuals, jaundice may only be apparent when triggered by one of these conditions. Gilbert syndrome is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.

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